Our donors know that their plasma contributions save lives, but not many know where their plasma goes after they donate. While the end goal is to help those in need, there are steps between the initial donation and the patient receiving the plasma. But what are those steps?

During the donation, your blood is pumped into a machine that separates it into layers. Because plasma is lighter than other components found in blood, the plasma becomes the top layer. The machine is then able to recognize the plasma and collect it separately from the rest of your blood. 

Once your plasma is separated and collected, it is immediately stored in a freezer for preservation. It can be kept for up to a year in the freezers, so even if it isn’t used right away, it can help people in the future! 

FACT: A new donor must donate twice in order for their plasma to be qualified as safe for use.

The preserved plasma is then transferred to a medical lab where it is produced into a variety of pharmaceutical medications and therapies.  Then, these medications are distributed to the appropriate medical facilities and used to treat bleeding and coagulation disorders, immune deficiencies, and other life-threatening conditions like trauma and severe burns.. 

Plasma donations allow patients to live healthy and productive lives. Please continue donating plasma to save lives by visiting your local BPL Plasma center. Most BPL Plasma centers are open every day including weekends and holidays.